Women's Health

Ammonia smell

07/15/2008

Question:

I had my daughter 2 years ago, and after I had her I experienced at the end of the pregnancy and from then on a strong ammonia smell from my vaginal area. I could take a shower and still smell it in the morning. My doctor checked for a UTI, I had a small amount of blood in my urine, but not enough to worry she said. They checked for bacteria, and there was none, and I had no discharge. I do have discoloration in my underwear, but no discharge. What could be causing this? Is it my urine, my birth control, (Mirena), infection they cant detect? I am very big in cleanliness and only have one sexual partner, my husband. No STDs. I didnt have this before my daughter, but I have ever since I had her. She was my second pregnancy. My first was my son who is 4 now. Please help? I dont know what else to do.

Answer:

There are two possible common causes for your problem: 1) bacterial vaginosis, or 2) concentrated urine.

Bacterial vaginosis is a common condition in which bacteria that are normally in the vagina overgrow, causing a “fishy” or “ammonia” odor, sometimes accompanied by a thin discharge that will discolor the underwear. Normally a doctor can take a sample of the secretions from the vagina and look under the microscope to make the diagnosis. Sometimes doctors will treat this condition, even if a cause can’t be found, with an antibiotic called metronidazole (Flagyl). More information about bacterial vaginosis can be found at this web site: www.cdc.gov/std/bv/STDFact-Bacterial-Vaginosis.htm.

Sometimes, the urine can cause this smell. Typically, a blood test checking to make sure the liver is normal, and a urine test are helpful. Drinking more fluids may also help.

Please note: only your personal physician or other health professional you consult can best advise you on matters of your health based on your medical history, your family medical history, your medication history, and how information from any of these databases may apply to you. Neither University of Cincinnati (NetWellness) nor any party involved in creating, producing or delivering this web site shall be liable for any damages arising out of access to or use of this web site, or any errors or omissions in the content thereof. (More)